I usually accompany Eric to all his workshops. Not because I don’t want to let him out of my sight, but because I enjoy helping him out which in turn reduces his stress level. When he’s teaching, he only likes to concentrate on the projects and the students. So I assist him in setting up and handling any sales and other ‘behind-the-scenes’ stuff that occurs during the day. And since I am a freelance designer, my work travels with me. But this time, I was not able to go with Eric to DELS (a supplier of high quality Nantucket basket making supplies) for his 2-day workshop. I have never been, so Eric took some pictures and shared his experience, that I will share with you.
First of all, I like the history behind D.E.L.S., a family-owned company since the 1960s. (If you don’t know it, you can find it on their website). I come from parents who were both self-employed and operated a business together so I can relate to Dave’s career beginnings. I’m sure Eric can too since he learned his craft from his father. Eric told me it was apparent early on that the crew at DELS were a tight group. They are a stone’s throw away from the Cape and a contributor to the local community and more importantly the many basketmakers that rely on their materials and expertise to make their baskets extra special. When you have a small business that is so labor intensive, the owners are working all the time on the smallest of projects. I was told that Dave will often be working evenings fitting handles and/or ornaments. (In the photo below, Dave is drilling a recess hole at the bottom of one of Eric’s student’s Tool Tote basket for a nameplate that he is inserting.) Eric said their unique shop is located in a residential neighborhood and is spread out on multiple floors over a few buildings. He said he saw someone applying a finish on basket molds on one floor and someone bending rims on another… sounds like any basket enthusiast would enjoy taking a tour. Eric’s workshop took place above the main showroom. They worked on the Cottage Tool Tote and Trisha Brown, Dave and Linda’s Daughter made the Shaker Apple Basket.
Sounds like it was a good weekend and Eric enjoyed Dave’s “man cave” and going out to dinner where he said “Dave knows everyone!” Thanks for taking care of him Trisha and Dave! 
Find DELS online at: www.nantucketbasketsupplies.com
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